Item Description:
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Commendation of Marvin Johnson, Mayor of Independence - offered by Commissioner Anderson.
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WHEREAS, Marvin Johnson has dedicated nearly 50 years to public service to the residents of Independence, starting as the city planning commissioner in 1973 and being elected Mayor in 1980; and
WHEREAS, during his tenure he has worked with 28 different council members, dedicated staff and countless partners to improve the city. His service extended beyond Independence and Hennepin County as he worked on projects with the State of Minnesota, Metropolitan Council and hosted the National League of Cities Small Cities Council in 2018; and
WHEREAS, as Mayor, Mr. Johnson partnered with Hennepin County on many projects and also served on the Hennepin County Recycling Committee; and
WHEREAS, he lead the city and his neighbors through many changes and modernizations in Independence during his service including:
• A New city hall in 2000
• New public works building and public safety garage
• Adding sewer for residents around Lake Sarah and Lake Independence to replace failing septic systems and protect water quality
• Ensuring residents of Independence had access to the Delano Senior Center by partnering on the initial build and expansion of that center
• Ensuring residents had safe and modern road systems through converting many roads from gravel to blacktop and serving on coalitions to improve the Highway 55 and Highway 12 corridors; and
WHEREAS, Mayor Johnson led the City of Independence, gave back to residents and peers and has left a lasting impact on his local community and local elected officials in Minnesota.
Resolution:
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners acknowledges Mayor Marvin Johnson’s accomplishments, commitment and dedication to the residents of Hennepin County and wishes him well in his retirement.
Recommendation from County Administrator: Recommend Approval